VIDEO: Sussex food heroes hailed ‘superb innovators’

Chairman of the judges at the Sussex Food & Drink Awards, Clive Beddall OBE, said all the winners ‘reflected the rich diversity of the food and drink industry.’

Celebrations were in full flow last night (Thursday, January 31) at this year’s sell-out spectacular ceremony, where eight of Sussex’s top food and drink producers were hailed as local heroes and received their trophies.

Sally Gunnell OBE celebrating with the winners

Over 350 leaders in the food, drink and farming industries gathered for what is now dubbed ‘the Sussex foodie event of the year’, with all tickets sold out. Guests were treated to a wonderful ‘Sussex bubbly and ale reception’, sponsored by Harveys and Carr Taylor, followed by a stunning seven-course banquet created by new stadium caterers the Lindley Group.

The menu featured an array of Sussex goodies including: Sussex beef and dairy, locally caught fish, locally grown fruit and vegetables and a selection of local cheeses, Sussex ground coffee and locally-made chocolates.

Clive Beddall OBE, Chairman of the Judges, said: “All our grand finalists offer superb quality and innovation and reflect the rich diversity of the food and drink industry in this part of the world- and there are few areas of a modern food store or indeed a catering sector menu that cannot be supplied from Sussex.”

Winners were announced in a BAFTA-style presentation, hosted by the awards patron Sally Gunnell OBE and Danny Pike of BBC Sussex.